Title
Housing Options Code Amendments - Staff Recommendation Briefing
Recommended Action
Information only. No action requested.
Report
Issue:
Discussion on the staff recommendations for the Housing Options Code Amendments.
Staff Contact:
Joyce Phillips, Senior Planner, Community Planning and Development, 360.570.3722
Presenter(s):
Joyce Phillips, Senior Planner, Community Planning and Development
Background and Analysis:
Amendment to Growth Management Act
In 2019 the State of Washington amended the Growth Management Act (GMA) to encourage cities to take actions to increase residential building capacity in Urban Growth Areas. Cities are not required to take these actions but are encouraged to do so. The actions are included in state law (see RCW 36.70A.600 attached).
Referral from City Council
In November of 2019, the City Council issued a referral to the Planning Commission which directed the Commission to consider three specific options from the list and to draft an ordinance that would implement at least two of the three options. The three options for consideration are summarized below:
OPTION 1: Accessory Dwelling Units
Allow accessory dwelling units on parcels containing single-family homes. Cities may not require on-site parking requirements, owner occupancy requirements, or square footage limitations below one thousand (1,000) square feet. To allow local flexibility, other than these factors, accessory dwelling units may be subject to locally determined provisions and must follow all applicable state and federal laws and local ordinances.
OPTION 2: Duplexes on Corner Lots
Allow a duplex on each corner lot within all zoning districts that permit single-family residences.
OPTION 3: Duplexes, Triplexes and Courtyard Apartments
Allow at least one duplex, triplex, or courtyard apartment on each parcel in one or more zoning districts that permit single-family residences unless a city documents a specific infrastructure or physical constraint that wo...
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